Bono Speaks His Truth: An Intimate Documentary Unveiled at the Cannes Film Festival
- Author: Ingo Scheel
- Reading Time: 4 minutes
Surgeon exposes intimate details of Bono's operation - Surgeon exposes personal side during life-saving operation
Bono grins at the incredible scenery on the Croisette, moments after his 65th birthday. He's in Cannes, where he's showcasing his latest venture at the film festival. "Places like this are astonishing, extraordinary," he chuckles [1].
- Cannes
- Bono
- Youth
- Dublin
- John Lennon
- Grandiosity
"Bono: Stories of Surrender" is a compelling documentary directed by Andrew Dominik, featuring Bono, the charismatic frontman of U2, opening up about his life and performing U2 numbers in an isolated environment [2][3]. This project is an extension of Bono's critically-acclaimed one-man show and book of the same name [1][2].
During the Cannes Film Festival on May 16, 2025, the film had a sensational debut at the Grand Théâtre Lumière, receiving an impressive seven-minute standing ovation [4]. Bono himself attended the screening, walked the red carpet alongside Ukrainian soldiers, symbolizing his solidarity for Ukraine [3][4].
Running for 1 hour and 26 minutes in length, the film captures Bono during his 2023 "Stories of Surrender" tour, offering a fascinating glimpse into the creation of the show with personal reminiscences and impassioned song performances [2]. After its Cannes premiere, the film was distributed globally on Apple TV+ on May 30, 2025 [2]. "Stories of Surrender," a condensed version of Bono's book, also hit shelves in the UK, Ireland, Canada, and the USA at the same time [2].
The documentary elicited favorable reviews at the Cannes Film Festival, with the standing ovation highlighting its positive reception [4]. While some critics feel it might not reach the heights of similar films [1], they've praised Bono for his captivating performances and dedication to global causes, such as supporting Ukraine [3][4].
Alongside the film's release, an EP titled "Stories of Surrender" was made available on digital platforms, and a limited 7-inch single could be purchased [2]. The book, "Stories of Surrender," will also be released in Japan in June 2025 [2].
[1] Scheel, Ingo. "Bono: Stories of Surrender." May 16, 2025.[2] Gallo, Frank. "Bono: Stories of Surrender – The Film and EP Review." May 30, 2025.[3] Tomic, Marko. "Gather 'Round: Bono and His Ukrainian Companions Walk the Red Carpet in Cannes." May 16, 2025.[4] Swift, Laurel. "Cannes Film Festival Crowd Goes Wild for Bono Documentary." May 16, 2025.
"Bono's captivating performances and dedication to global causes, such as supporting Ukraine, were praised by critics during the debut of the documentary 'Bono: Stories of Surrender' at the Cannes Film Festival, earning it a seven-minute standing ovation."
"The world of entertainment embraced Bono, with celebrities and music enthusiasts alike commending his work with U2 and his ongoing endeavors in the music and entertainment industry."
